The spring sports season is underway. And your family may be geared-up for some new activities through your school, organized, or recreational leagues. But whether you are on a team, a coach, or parent– you’ll want to be sure your most valuable players are also playing it safe.
April is National Facial Protection Month, and according to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 80% of sports-related emergency room visits involve children between the ages of 4 and 14. Many suffered painful injuries while playing basketball, football, bicycling, while on the playground, or soccer. And most could’ve been prevented, simply by wearing the proper protective gear.
“As one example, a properly fitted mouth guard should be an essential piece of an athlete’s protective equipment,” says Dr. Jaeger. “Talk with us about the kinds of activities you and your family enjoy, and how to keep the teeth and face protected.”
Here’s 5 simple ways to stay safe:
Mouth Guards: Mouth guards hold teeth in place, while allowing for normal speech and breathing. Our team can make a customized mouth guard, which can keep you or your child safe from injuries.
Helmets: Helmets are meant to protect the head. A helmet can absorb some of the energy in an impact, whether you’re playing baseball or riding your bicycle.
Eyewear: Eyewear can keep your vision safe. And there’s special athletic eyewear to protect your eyes while playing sports.
Face Shields: Face shields are meant to protect your or your child from facial damage. Hockey pucks, footballs, and racquetballs can easily cause severe injuries.
Mandatory Protective Gear: Mandatory protective gear is typically required by the athletes taking part in some programs. Football, hockey, and boxing are a few examples of sports which require mouth guards.
Take time during National Facial Protection Month to remind the sports lovers in your life how simple it can be to protect your mouth and face, but also your peace of mind.